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On July 12 2018 13:01 nayumi wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 12:36 DucK- wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Good news is england doesn't have a talented squad XD so that works for him! Well at the current rate of English clubs spending money on importing expensive players, I'm concerned the local talents won't have room to grow. Their whatever 17s or 20s will probably spending their time on the bench for 1 or 2 seasons before going out on loan to have their career at a lower tier league. Spain and Germany have been successful internationally because their top clubs support the growth of local talent.
I just want to add that besides this year Liverpool reaching finals English team is for the last what 4-5 years done nothing in CL which again shows even when importing expensive players they lack the base to play on par with Spain/Germany/Italy and its been like that right after the Ferguson MU years.
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The hilarious part is that Panama tried this vs England and got a load of shit for it (and rightfully so). Then England goes and does the same.
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On July 12 2018 15:21 SatsuinoHado wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 13:01 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 12:36 DucK- wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Good news is england doesn't have a talented squad XD so that works for him! Well at the current rate of English clubs spending money on importing expensive players, I'm concerned the local talents won't have room to grow. Their whatever 17s or 20s will probably spending their time on the bench for 1 or 2 seasons before going out on loan to have their career at a lower tier league. Spain and Germany have been successful internationally because their top clubs support the growth of local talent. I just want to add that besides this year Liverpool reaching finals English team is for the last what 4-5 years done nothing in CL which again shows even when importing expensive players they lack the base to play on par with Spain/Germany/Italy and its been like that right after the Ferguson MU years. i think despite CL results, teams will continue doing so because it attracts viewers and viewers bring money to the league business wise it's working pretty good but yea I get your point
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On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute.
This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016.
Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey.
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On July 12 2018 16:15 nayumi wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 15:21 SatsuinoHado wrote:On July 12 2018 13:01 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 12:36 DucK- wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Good news is england doesn't have a talented squad XD so that works for him! Well at the current rate of English clubs spending money on importing expensive players, I'm concerned the local talents won't have room to grow. Their whatever 17s or 20s will probably spending their time on the bench for 1 or 2 seasons before going out on loan to have their career at a lower tier league. Spain and Germany have been successful internationally because their top clubs support the growth of local talent. I just want to add that besides this year Liverpool reaching finals English team is for the last what 4-5 years done nothing in CL which again shows even when importing expensive players they lack the base to play on par with Spain/Germany/Italy and its been like that right after the Ferguson MU years. i think despite CL results, teams will continue doing so because it attracts viewers and viewers bring money to the league business wise it's working pretty good but yea I get your point
The best part for those English guys is the exposure they got from this WC and some of them will for sure get good deals and maybe join better teams.
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On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worthy win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers...
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On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey.
The thing is the bracket was uneven and this was due to teams like Germany and Argentina who were in the finals 4 years ago under performing which made this situation. Imagine of Argentina went first and Germany first in the groups they participated, we would watch 1/2 final Argentina vs Germany not Croatia vs England but its all or nothing with no loser brackets so your opinion is valid in theory but in reality France will play as favorite again in a final same as 2 years ago and we know how that went down dont we.
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On July 12 2018 16:51 -Archangel- wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worth win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers...
He thinks France are amazing cos they scored a set piece against Belgium and then wasted the last 40 minutes of the game pretending to be hurt taking 5 minutes over every throw in. I hope you guys destroy France and show them for the arrogant players they are. Croatia deserve the win so much more.
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On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016.Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey.
Are you fucking kidding me. Portugal failed to win a single game in the group stages and then got the easiest possible way to the finals.
Croatia at least went 9/9 in groups.
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Wow all that hate from both sides.
I think in this world cup we can safely say that the best teams of both upper and lower bracket got into the finals. Obviously the strength of the two brackets is massively unbalanced but France was the best team IN THIS TOURNAMENT of the UPPER bracket and Croatia was the best team IN THIS TOURNAMENT of the LOWER bracket.
There is seriously no need for hate anywhere.
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On July 12 2018 16:58 Laurens wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016.Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Are you fucking kidding me. Portugal failed to win a single game in the group stages and then got the easiest possible way to the finals. Croatia at least went 9/9 in groups. Easiest? Portugal beat us on the way to finals And we played better than them for most of that game. And in Euro 2016 we also played very good, we destroyed Spain in our group.
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This tournament has some serious quality of play issues.
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On July 12 2018 16:51 -Archangel- wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worthy win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers... It's blatant your team is weak, the whole tournament is weak, it's a joke, we've missed at least 4 good teams for it to be a good tournament. It's euro 2016 all over again. The second part of the bracket was atrocious.
The story telling of big names falling made it entertaining but once we look at the level of play it's the weakest world cup I've ever seen.
Do you think this Croatian team would stand a chance against Argentina 2014, Netherlands 2010, France 2006, Germany 2002? No they wouldn't.
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On July 12 2018 17:15 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 16:51 -Archangel- wrote:On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worthy win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers... It's blatant your team is weak, the whole tournament is weak, it's a joke, we've missed at least 4 good teams for it to be a good tournament. It's euro 2016 all over again. The second part of the bracket was atrocious. The story telling of big names falling made it entertaining but once we look at the level of play it's the weakest world cup I've ever seen. Do you think this Croatian team would stand a chance against Argentina 2014, Netherlands 2010, France 2006, Germany 2002? No they wouldn't. Now I'm really looking forward to France losing!
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On July 12 2018 17:15 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 16:51 -Archangel- wrote:On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worthy win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers... It's blatant your team is weak, the whole tournament is weak, it's a joke, we've missed at least 4 good teams for it to be a good tournament. It's euro 2016 all over again. The second part of the bracket was atrocious. The story telling of big names falling made it entertaining but once we look at the level of play it's the weakest world cup I've ever seen. Do you think this Croatian team would stand a chance against Argentina 2014, Netherlands 2010, France 2006, Germany 2002? No they wouldn't.
This Croatian team is on par with Argentina 2014, weaker than Netherlands 2010, weaker than France 2006 and stronger than Germany 2002. So there is nothing atrocious about this world cup.
Personally I enjoyed this world cup very much. The knockout games with Sweden were the worst games though
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On July 12 2018 17:21 sharkie wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 17:15 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 16:51 -Archangel- wrote:On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worthy win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers... It's blatant your team is weak, the whole tournament is weak, it's a joke, we've missed at least 4 good teams for it to be a good tournament. It's euro 2016 all over again. The second part of the bracket was atrocious. The story telling of big names falling made it entertaining but once we look at the level of play it's the weakest world cup I've ever seen. Do you think this Croatian team would stand a chance against Argentina 2014, Netherlands 2010, France 2006, Germany 2002? No they wouldn't. This Croatian team is on par with Argentina 2014, weaker than Netherlands 2010, weaker than France 2006 and stronger than Germany 2002. So there is nothing atrocious about this world cup. Personally I enjoyed this world cup very much. The knockout games with Sweden were the worst games though
I've really enjoyed it too. I'd rather a slight dip in quality if it means more entertaining games. I watch for entertainment not because I'm measuring the quality. Its the tactical battles, storylines, upsets and mistakes that make football interesting.
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On July 12 2018 17:12 Artisreal wrote: This tournament has some serious quality of play issues.
I think it had good quality for being a worldcup. Worlcups usually are less tactical and less trained and prepared than this worldcup. It is not beautiful to see (posession or attacking teams were eliminated soon) but I think it is a worldcup with more quality and high level play than others that I remember. Obviously less than Club football as always, but not so bad.
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Kick and rush was more entertaining than this do-nothing-make-a-break-and-score style of games we've had. Semi finals were a rare alternative to that but looking at the minimal shots on the goal is rather telling for this WC. Some teams play well until the box and then cant break through the 8 man defense line. This is incredibly boring to watch.
I seem to have missed every good game this WC though so I might be rather biased.
Let's hope for a good finals and a decent sportsmanship from both teams.
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On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. I was about to type my lengthy response but I realised that you must be trolling ...
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On July 12 2018 17:15 nojok wrote:Show nested quote +On July 12 2018 16:51 -Archangel- wrote:On July 12 2018 16:47 nojok wrote:On July 12 2018 11:52 nayumi wrote:On July 12 2018 06:23 Faruko wrote:On July 12 2018 06:18 BigFan wrote: People keep writing Croatia off and Croatia keeps delivering. My only wish is that they show the same level of play they did past the 60ish minute mark (after that goal) all game long, but I feel like that would actually work against them somehow. Congrats to Croatian fans! Game was really exciting once they really started finding their groove (and England slipping in their defense haha). Who thought Croatia was off? For once everyone thought they were pretty strong and considering their path they should have achieved SF, and they did vs England, lots of us thought they were """"""""""""""underdogs""""""""""""""" but it wasn't really clear at all, like maybe 60/40 or something Besides not winning anything and being their first finals, i don't consider Croatia underdogs or even a surprise overall IMO, finals are always 50/50 between 2 good teams, even if one of those seems better, it's 1 game and anything can happen, a shitty day can decide anything Croatia has been showing that they were top 2/4 contenders ever since the group stage. They weren't the underdog against Argentina (anyone who though otherwise is really silly imo) and thus they shouldn't be considered underdog against England either. To be completely fair, this England team has made it this far due to the following factors: - Smart and intelligent tactic used which fully utilised the strength of a group of average players (barring Kane). - Arguably easier group stage and knock-out opponents all the way to the semi. However I think they severely lack the depth required to win a major tournament. Finding more than one way to reliably score is what they should work on. I don't think they can do it with the current squad though. Putting the lack of talents issue aside, as much as I think Southgate deserves at least 70% credit for this World Cup's success (yes, making to the semi should be an achievement for this England squad), I'm not convinced he's the right man for the job, if you want to go on and win titles. His approach to the game works at the youth level (which was where he came from), and is perfect to make an average squad look better collectively, but I don't think it's suitable for a more talented squad which desires to win stuffs. Croatia is a decent team but nowhere near world cup final level. They were dominated by Denmark, Nigeria, Argentina, England and Russia. It took an autogoal and a penalty against Nigeria, a gift from Argentina, the total lack of mental strength from the English who disappeared for no reason whatsoever. Even Iceland pushed them to the last minute. This is the worst run to a final ever. It would be an embarassment for football to see a team this poor win the world cup. They're far from showing the qualities Greece showed in 2004 or even Portugal in 2016. Saying they've showed they were top4 contenders shows an absolutely lack of understanding of football. This world cup will give us a sad low cost star on the jersey. Wow, just wow.. your only worthy win was vs Belgium and mostly because your team played like pussies whole second half and stole time wherever you could. Argentina that we destroyed scored 3 goal against you. This amount of hubris beats even English fansnewspapers... It's blatant your team is weak, the whole tournament is weak, it's a joke, we've missed at least 4 good teams for it to be a good tournament. It's euro 2016 all over again. The second part of the bracket was atrocious. The story telling of big names falling made it entertaining but once we look at the level of play it's the weakest world cup I've ever seen. Do you think this Croatian team would stand a chance against Argentina 2014, Netherlands 2010, France 2006, Germany 2002? No they wouldn't.
Germany 2002? Really? The only thing good about that team was Kahn. But it sounds like you are mostly in this to bait croatians, anyway.
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